What to do when a child bites nails? Advice from a child psychologist

illustration: DreamLab AI [public domain]

It is difficult to solve a problem without understanding its cause, so the first step is to consider why the child bites their nails. There are several possible reasons, with extreme cases including ADHD, various anxiety disorders, or separation anxiety.

• Most often, nail-biting stems from stress that the child is experiencing.
• Sometimes, muscle tension is the cause, and the child relieves it this way.

– We should observe when this behavior intensifies. By talking with our child, we can learn what is troubling them and quickly identify situations that may reinforce this stressful habit, explains psychologist Karolina Lenart, an expert on the #MAMYNATORADĘ advisory platform of the Ogólnopolski Operator Oświaty foundation. – A difficult family situation, lack of communication with a household member, or the birth of a sibling can also trigger such behaviors.

Sometimes, the reasons should be sought at school or kindergarten. Is a public performance approaching? Or does the child need to integrate into a new group, causing anxiety? This may be the cause of nail-biting.

What to Do When a Child Bites Their Nails?

A parent who notices their child biting their nails should consider consulting a child psychologist. This will help diagnose the problem more effectively and determine whether it is deeply rooted or simply a response to a stressful situation. What can help eliminate this habit?

• One option is using special pharmacy-available solutions. Applying these to the child`s fingers leaves a bitter taste, discouraging them from continuing the habit. However, we must remember that this may not work for every child.
• A better approach might be to replace one habit with another that is less harmful to the child`s fingers. Various sensory toys, including stress balls, can help. Keeping their hands occupied prevents them from going to their mouth, reducing the urge to bite nails.
• Even simple rubber bands can make a difference and turn the struggle into a fun activity. Wearing colorful bands on their fingers or wrists can become a kind of jewelry that the child enjoys.

However, the most important factor in breaking such habits is always talking to the child.

– We need to make them understand that nail-biting is inappropriate behavior, says Karolina Lenart, an expert from the Ogólnopolski Operator Oświaty foundation. – At the same time, we should ensure that this conversation is calm and avoid shouting or criticism.

In addition to explaining why nail-biting is not a good habit, we should also offer our support. A parent who struggled with the same habit as a child can share their experience. This helps build understanding and makes it easier to find a solution.

Which Doctor Should You See for Nail-Biting?

By observing our child daily, we may be able to determine the cause of their nail-biting habit. However, consulting a child psychologist is recommended, as their insight can be invaluable. This is the primary specialist to visit in such cases.

The next steps will depend on the diagnosis. It may turn out that the child has ADHD, struggles with deep-seated anxieties, or has sensory processing issues. In such cases, the specialist will recommend the appropriate tests. A sensory integration assessment will determine whether the child processes environmental stimuli correctly or requires stronger stimulation, such as biting their fingers.

– Remember that nail-biting also has a physical aspect. While caring for the child’s mental well-being, we should not forget about their body, advises psychologist Karolina Lenart. – If we notice any wounds or cuts on the child’s hands, we should visit a pediatrician to prevent infection.

Tips for Parents:

• Observe your child. A vigilant parent will quickly recognize the reasons behind nail-biting and whether additional symptoms accompany it.
• Consult a child psychologist. A specialist can help identify or confirm the cause.
• Talk to your child. Parental understanding is key to overcoming most problems, both in identifying causes and finding solutions.

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This advice is part of the #MAMYNATORADĘ social project, aimed at supporting parents in ensuring the proper development of their children. Free guides for parents are prepared by experienced pedagogues, child psychologists, and speech therapists with school and preschool experience. The weekly Reporterzy.info is the media patron of the project. https://operator.edu.pl/pl/poradnia

The project is run by the educational foundation Ogólnopolski Operator Oświaty. It is funded by voluntary donations and 1.5% PIT tax deductions KRS 00000 44866.

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The Ogólnopolski Operator Oświaty foundation has been conducting educational and social activities since 2001 and supports local governments in implementing educational tasks and projects. The foundation is a public benefit organization. It runs free, public preschools and schools across Poland, attended by over 9,000 children. The OOO foundation also implements nationwide educational, social, and developmental projects: #MAMYNATORADĘ. Guides for Parents • We Care for #EMOOOCJE. Psychological Support in Schools and Preschools • #LabOOOratorium. Create Innovations with Us.